In a surprising twist in Montana’s political arena, the 2025 Legislature commenced with Republican lawmakers—despite their electoral success last fall—deciding to surrender some authority to the Democrats. This opportunistic move by the minority enabled them to reshape legislative committees, team with a few moderate Republicans, and effectively counteract GOP leaders’ attempts to further politicize Montana’s judiciary. This unexpected coalition also managed to bolster Medicaid expansion, increase teacher salaries, and push through a state budget that included significant investments in affordable housing and healthcare.
Such cooperation defies the entrenched partisan divides seen in Washington D.C. and other statehouses across the country. However, it remains uncertain if this collaboration will be sustainable amid an electoral landscape in Montana that increasingly mirrors the national polarization of political lines. Notably, both conservative and moderate Republicans in the state express their loyalty to former President Donald Trump.
Montana’s Legislature convenes for a few months every couple of years in Helena, a city steeped in history from the 1864 gold rush. The state’s citizen legislature still renders a relatively level playing field conducive to compromise, observed political analyst Jeremy Johnson from Carroll College. “Montana’s legislative process is becoming an anomaly given this unusual dynamic,” Johnson remarked.
As this legislative session closed on Wednesday, frustration prevailed among Republican leaders over their inability to revamp the judicial system, control spending, or address the issue of rising property taxes. Republican Senator Barry Usher voiced that the majority felt ‘steamrolled’ during the 85-day session. While Republicans succeeded in tightening restrictions on transgender individuals and passed an income tax cut criticized by Democrats as benefiting the wealthy, the GOP’s conservative faction often found themselves sidelined by moderates teaming with Democrats on core government issues like health care, education, and taxes.
The internal dissent among Republicans led the party to censure nine senators in February who were perceived as outliers. By April, the GOP declared these lawmakers would no longer be recognized as party members nor receive support for their campaigns. Yet, these senators continued to collaborate with Democrats on crucial votes. “Our goal was simply to ensure fairness for everyone,” expressed Senator Josh Kassmier, one of the censured lawmakers.
Moderate Republicans secured some political support from Governor Greg Gianforte, who has appeared with them publicly. When queried about internal party discord undermining their electoral mandate, Gianforte emphasized that each legislator represents their constituents. Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers acknowledged Montana’s libertarian-leaning ethos—showcased by its skepticism of big government and a strong tradition of gun ownership—transcends party boundaries. “Montanans shy away from hyperpartisan conflict as it creates winners and losers, impacting citizens in the same way,” Flowers explained.
Across the U.S., Republicans hold sway in the legislative chambers of 27 states compared to Democrats’ 17. The GOP has maintained more statehouse seats and chambers since 2002, with political lines becoming less fluid in recent elections. Yet, within states that lean heavily Republican, internal factions do surface, as seen in Wyoming where ultra-conservative Republicans have pushed through property tax cuts and bans on diversity initiatives.
Historically, Montana was known for “ticket splitting”—electing both Democrat and Republican candidates to office—which necessitated bipartisan cooperation. This year, a successful bipartisan effort established Indigenous People’s Day in Montana after many years of unsuccessful attempts. Reflecting on Montana’s political climate, Johnson noted, “Every session raises the question of whether bipartisan efforts will endure, especially without a Democratic governor like Steve Bullock. So far, the answer remains affirmative, but it is unclear how long this era will persist.”